Multipurpose information transfer medium eyepiece

ABSTRACT

An aircraft communications system is located on an aircraft. The aircraft communications system comprises a set of eyewear units, an aircraft data processing system, and a wireless system. Each eyewear unit has a set of sensors and a display. The set of eyewear units is capable of receiving user input and is capable of presenting information to a set of users of the set of eyewear units. The aircraft data processing system is capable of receiving the user input and sending the information to the set of eyewear units in response to receiving the user input from the set of eyewear units. The wireless system is located proximate to the cabin of the aircraft and is capable of sending the user input from the set of eyewear units to the aircraft data processing system and sending the information to the set of eyewear units.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1. Field

The present disclosure relates generally to an improved data processingsystem and particularly to a method and apparatus for transferringinformation. Still more particularly, the present disclosure relates toa computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable programcode for transferring information in an aircraft.

2. Background

Air travel is a common form of transportation. Passengers traveling inan aircraft may have a need to communicate with the flight attendants,other passengers, and the airplane itself. Further, the flightattendants and other flight crew may need to communicate or giveinformation to the passengers in the cabin of the aircraft. Thisinformation may include, for example, without limitation, safetyinformation, weather updates, gate information, lavatory availability,and other suitable information.

Currently, the transfer of information between passengers and the flightcrew involves the use of place cards, signs, and other visual aidslocated within the passenger cabin. These visual aids may not beuniversally clear and can be visually distracting. Further, the formatof information may detract from the experience, aesthetics, and brandthat an airline or airplane manufacturer wishes to create within theinterior of the aircraft.

Information also may be communicated verbally between passengers andflight attendants. As an example, if a passenger desires to make arequest, the passenger typically presses a button in the overheadsection of the aircraft to signal that the passenger wishes to talk witha flight attendant. The activation of this button generates a signal orindicator in the flight attendant area indicating that a particularpassenger wishes to speak with a flight attendant. This type ofcommunication, however, does not provide any indication as to what thepassenger wishes. The flight attendant travels to the seat where thepassenger is sitting and talks to the passenger at the passenger'slocation. The flight attendant may then fulfill the request.

Thus, the transfer of information within a passenger cabin betweenflight attendants, other flight crew, and passengers is limited.Further, these types of systems also make communications between flightattendants and other flight crew more difficult. An additional issue isthat the current communication methods for transferring information maybe ineffective for many disabled passengers. As a result, existingsolutions use place cards and signs with the flight attendants verballyproviding information as needed.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a method and apparatus thatovercomes the problems described above.

SUMMARY

In one advantageous embodiment, an aircraft communications system islocated on an aircraft. The aircraft communications system comprises aset of eyewear units, an aircraft data processing system, and a wirelesssystem. Each eyewear unit has a set of sensors and a display. The set ofeyewear units is capable of receiving user input and is capable ofpresenting information to a set of users of the set of eyewear units.The aircraft data processing system is capable of receiving the userinput and sending the information to the set of eyewear units inresponse to receiving the user input from the set of eyewear units. Thewireless system is located in a cabin of the aircraft and is capable ofsending the user input from the set of eyewear units to the aircraftdata processing system and sending the information to the set of eyewearunits.

In another advantageous embodiment, an apparatus comprises an eyewearunit and a set of modules. The eyewear unit has a set of sensors, avideo display, and an audio device, a wireless communications unit, anda processing unit. The set of modules executes on the processing unit,wherein the eyewear unit is capable of receiving user input from the setof sensors and capable of presenting information to a user of theeyewear unit using at least one of the video display and the audiodevice.

In yet another advantageous embodiment, a computer implemented method ispresent for providing information to a user. A request is received froman eyewear unit comprising a set of sensors, a video display, an audiodevice, a wireless communications unit, a processing unit, and a set ofmodules executing on the processing unit. The eyewear unit is capable ofreceiving user input from the set of sensors and capable of presentingthe information to a user of the eyewear unit using at least one of thevideo display and the audio device. Particular information responsive tothe request is identified to form identified information. The identifiedinformation is sent to the eyewear unit.

The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently invarious embodiments of the present disclosure or may be combined in yetother embodiments in which further details can be seen with reference tothe following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the advantageousembodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The advantageousembodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, furtherobjectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by referenceto the following detailed description of an advantageous embodiment ofthe present disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an aircraft manufacturing and servicemethod in which an advantageous embodiment may be implemented;

FIG. 2 is a diagram of an aircraft in accordance with an advantageousembodiment;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an information transfer environment inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a data processing system in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating eyewear units in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating examples of information transfers inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a presentation of information usingeyewear units in accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an identification of a passenger seatin accordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of eyewear units in accordance withan advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating types of information that may betransferred to eyewear units in accordance with an advantageousembodiment;

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a process for initializing eyewear units inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a process for handling user input inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment; and

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a process for an avatar in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring more particularly to the drawings, embodiments of thedisclosure may be described in the context of the aircraft manufacturingand service method 100 as shown in FIG. 1 and aircraft 200 as shown inFIG. 2. Turning first to FIG. 1, a diagram illustrating an aircraftmanufacturing and service method is depicted in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment. During pre-production, or retrofit exemplaryaircraft manufacturing and service method 100 may include specificationand design 102 of aircraft 200 in FIG. 2 and material procurement 104.

During production, component and subassembly manufacturing 106 andsystem integration 108 of aircraft 200 in FIG. 2 takes place.Thereafter, aircraft 200 in FIG. 2 may go through certification anddelivery 110 in order to be placed in service 112. While in service by acustomer, aircraft 200 in FIG. 2 is scheduled for routine maintenanceand service 114, which may include modification, reconfiguration,refurbishment, and other maintenance or service. When aircraft 200 is nolonger usable or required for use, end of life disposal 116 may occur.

Each of the processes of aircraft manufacturing and service method 100may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party,and/or an operator. In these examples, the operator may be a customer.For the purposes of this description, a system integrator may include,without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers andmajor-system subcontractors; a third party may include, withoutlimitation, any number of venders, subcontractors, and suppliers; and anoperator may be an airline, leasing company, military entity, serviceorganization, and so on.

With reference now to FIG. 2, a diagram of an aircraft is depicted inwhich an advantageous embodiment may be implemented. In this example,aircraft 200 is produced by aircraft manufacturing and service method100 in FIG. 1 and may include airframe 202 with a plurality of systems204 and interior 206. Examples of systems 204 include one or more ofpropulsion system 208, electrical system 210, hydraulic system 212, andenvironmental system 214. Any number of other systems may be included.Although an aerospace example is shown, different advantageousembodiments may be applied to other industries, such as the automotiveindustry.

Apparatus and methods embodied herein may be employed during any one ormore of the stages of aircraft manufacturing and service method 100 inFIG. 1. For example, components or subassemblies produced in componentand subassembly manufacturing 106 in FIG. 1 may be fabricated ormanufactured in a manner similar to components or subassemblies producedwhile aircraft 200 is in service 112 in FIG. 1.

Also, one or more apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or acombination thereof may be utilized during production stages, such ascomponent and subassembly manufacturing 106 and system integration 108in FIG. 1, for example, without limitation, by substantially expeditingthe assembly of or reducing the cost of aircraft 200. Similarly, one ormore of apparatus embodiments, method embodiments, or a combinationthereof may be utilized while aircraft 200 is in service 112 or duringmaintenance and service 114 in FIG. 1.

As a specific example, an aircraft communication system may bemanufactured during component and subassembly manufacturing 106 in FIG.1 in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. The aircraftcommunication system may be implemented into aircraft 200 in FIG. 2during system integration 108 in FIG. 1. Further, after aircraft 200 inFIG. 2 is in service, aircraft 200 in FIG. 2 may be modified orreconfigured during maintenance and service 114 in FIG. 1 to include anaircraft communication system, according to the different advantageousembodiments, if one was not included during the original manufacturingof aircraft 200 in FIG. 2.

The different advantageous embodiments provide a framework orarchitecture for transferring information within a passenger cabin. Thisinformation may be transferred in real time. The different advantageousembodiments may provide each passenger with an eyepiece that serve as aninterface to transfer information.

The different advantageous embodiments combine language translators,virtual reality simulations, artificial intelligence software, sensornetworks, augmented realities, and other suitable features to transferinformation. With this type of system, passengers may receiveinformation, as well as send requests or provide information to theflight attendants and other crew members.

With reference now to FIG. 3, a block diagram of an information transferenvironment is depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment.In this example, information transfer environment 300 may includeaircraft 302. Aircraft 302 has aircraft data processing system 304 whichis in communication with wireless system 306 within passenger cabin 308.Wireless system 306 is an example of one type of wireless system thatmay be used to provide communication. Passengers and crew may useeyewear units 310 within passenger cabin 308 to transfer information. Inthese examples, information may be transferred between aircraft dataprocessing system 304 and eyewear units 310 with wireless system 306providing a wireless network to transfer information between thesedevices. Wireless system 306 may be, for example, a set of routers.

Further, additional information may be transferred between eyewear units310 and other data processing systems, such as data processing systems312, which may be located in other locations other than aircraft 302.Data processing systems 312 may communicate with aircraft dataprocessing system 304 through network 314 to transfer information witheyewear units 310. Network 314 may include wireless and wiredcommunications links.

When in flight, aircraft data processing system 304 may communicate withdata processing systems 312 through wireless communications links. Thesecommunications links may be, for example, a satellite link, radiofrequency transmission, or some other suitable mechanism. On the ground,other wireless transmission media may be used, as well as wired linksconnected to aircraft 302.

Eyewear units 310 may provide visual, audio, and/or tactile informationto users through display and audio devices. Further, eyewear units 310may include sensors to receive user input. This user input may be, forexample, without limitation, gestures, eye movements, eye twitches,voice commands, and other suitable input.

In addition, aircraft 302 may also include line replaceable units 316.These line replaceable units include, for example, without limitation,an in-flight attendance system, an aircraft environmental system, orsome other suitable type of line replaceable unit. Some of linereplaceable units 316 may be controlled by aircraft data processingsystem 304 in response to user input received through eyewear units 310.

For example, functions, such as a movie or music presented to apassenger, using line replaceable units 316, may be controlled byaircraft data processing system 304 through requests received frompassengers using eyewear units 310. As another example, the airconditioning for a particular seat or area may be controlled based onrequests from passengers using eyewear units 310.

Although the different advantageous embodiments are described withrespect to providing communications within aircraft 302, the differentadvantageous embodiments are not meant to limit the manner in whichinformation transfer environment 300 may be implemented. Informationtransfer environment 300 also may be used to provide communications withusers having eyewear units 310 in other locations. For example, thedifferent advantageous embodiments may also be applied to users witheyewear units 310 located within airport 318. In this manner, users mayexchange information with airlines, airport vendors, and other suitableentities.

Turning now to FIG. 4, a diagram of a data processing system is depictedin accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Data processing system400 may be used to implement various components such as, for example,without limitation, aircraft data processing system 304, data processingsystems 312, and eyewear units 310 in FIG. 3. Depending on a particularimplementation, fewer or additional components may be used in additionto those illustrated for data processing system 400.

In this illustrative example, data processing system 400 includescommunications fabric 402, which provides communications betweenprocessor unit 404, memory 406, persistent storage 408, communicationsunit 410, input/output (I/O) unit 412, and display 414.

Processor unit 404 serves to execute instructions for software that maybe loaded into memory 406. Processor unit 404 may be a set of one ormore processors or may be a multi-processor core, depending on theparticular implementation. Further, processor unit 404 may beimplemented using one or more heterogeneous processor systems in which amain processor is present with secondary processors on a single chip. Asanother illustrative example, processor unit 404 may be a symmetricmulti-processor system containing multiple processors of the same type.

Memory 406 and persistent storage 408 are examples of storage devices. Astorage device is any piece of hardware that is capable of storinginformation either on a temporary basis and/or a permanent basis. Memory406, in these examples, may be, for example, a random access memory orany other suitable volatile or non-volatile storage device. Persistentstorage 408 may take various forms depending on the particularimplementation. For example, persistent storage 408 may contain one ormore components or devices. For example, persistent storage 408 may be ahard drive, a flash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritablemagnetic tape, or some combination of the above. The media used bypersistent storage 408 also may be removable. For example, a removablehard drive may be used for persistent storage 408.

Communications unit 410, in these examples, provides for communicationswith other data processing systems or devices. In these examples,communications unit 410 is a network interface card. Communications unit410 may provide communications through the use of either or bothphysical and wireless communications links.

Input/output unit 412 allows for input and output of data with otherdevices that may be connected to data processing system 400. Forexample, input/output unit 412 may provide a connection for user inputthrough a keyboard and mouse. Further, input/output unit 412 may sendoutput to a printer. Display 414 provides a mechanism to displayinformation to a user.

Instructions for the operating system and applications or programs arelocated on persistent storage 408. These instructions may be loaded intomemory 406 for execution by processor unit 404. The processes of thedifferent embodiments may be performed by processor unit 404 usingcomputer implemented instructions, which may be located in a memory,such as memory 406. These instructions are referred to as program code,computer usable program code, or computer readable program code that maybe read and executed by a processor in processor unit 404. The programcode in the different embodiments may be embodied on different physicalor tangible computer readable media, such as memory 406 or persistentstorage 408.

Program code 416 is located in a functional form on computer readablemedia 418 that is selectively removable and may be loaded onto ortransferred to data processing system 400 for execution by processorunit 404. Program code 416 and computer readable media 418 form computerprogram product 420 in these examples.

In one example, computer readable media 418 may be in a tangible form,such as, for example, an optical or magnetic disc that is inserted orplaced into a drive or other device that is part of persistent storage408 for transfer onto a storage device, such as a hard drive that ispart of persistent storage 408.

In a tangible form, computer readable media 418 also may take the formof a persistent storage, such as a hard drive, a thumb drive, or a flashmemory that is connected to data processing system 400. The tangibleform of computer readable media 418 is also referred to as computerrecordable storage media. In some instances, computer readable media 418may not be removable.

Alternatively, program code 416 may be transferred to data processingsystem 400 from computer readable media 418 through a communicationslink to communications unit 410 and/or through a connection toinput/output unit 412. The communications link and/or the connection maybe physical or wireless in the illustrative examples. The computerreadable media also may take the form of non-tangible media, such ascommunications links or wireless transmissions containing the programcode.

The different components illustrated for data processing system 400 arenot meant to provide architectural limitations to the manner in whichdifferent embodiments may be implemented. The different illustrativeembodiments may be implemented in a data processing system includingcomponents in addition to or in place of those illustrated for dataprocessing system 400.

Other components shown in FIG. 4 can be varied from the illustrativeexamples shown. For example, if data processing system 400 is used toimplement eyewear units 310 in FIG. 3, data processing system 400 mayinclude storage devices in the form of flash memory rather than diskdrives or other larger types of devices. Of course, the displays andother components may be used in data processing system 400 whenimplemented for use as eyewear units 310 in FIG. 3.

As one example, a storage device in data processing system 400 is anyhardware apparatus that may store data. Memory 406, persistent storage408, and computer readable media 418 are examples of storage devices ina tangible form.

With reference now to FIG. 5, a diagram illustrating eyewear units isdepicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. In this example,eyewear unit 500 is an example of an eyewear unit within eyewear units310 in FIG. 3. As illustrated, eyewear unit 500 includes processor unit502, memory 504, communications unit 506, display unit 508, audio unit510, sensors 512, and input/output unit 514.

These different components are connected through bus 516 in thisillustrative example. Processor unit 502 may be a set of processors.Processor unit 502 executes program code to provide functionality foreyewear unit 500. Memory 504 may be, for example, a flash memory, arandom access memory, and/or some other suitable memory device. Memory504 may store information, as well as program code executed by processorunit 502.

Communications unit 506 provides for communications with other dataprocessing systems or devices. In particular, communications unit 506,in these examples, provides communications through wirelesscommunications links. In these examples, communications unit 506 may be,for example, a Bluetooth unit, a Wi-Fi unit, or some other suitablewireless communications device.

Display unit 508 provides a display to a user of eyewear unit 500. Thisdisplay may be, for example, a heads-up display, a light emitting diodedisplay, or some other type of display. With a heads-up display, displayunit 508 may provide augmented reality presentations to a user.

Audio unit 510 provides sounds to a user. Sensors 512 may be used todetect user input by a user. For example, sensors 512 may include avideo camera, an infrared sensitive camera, a muscle twitch detector, aneye movement sensor, or some other sensor. These sensors may be used toidentify various gestures, eye movements, muscle twitches, or other userstimuli to identify commands and information generated by user.

Input/output unit 514 may provide a capability to send and receive data.For example, input/output unit 514 may provide a connection to akeyboard and/or mouse that may be connected to eyewear unit 500. Thistype of connection may provide additional mediums for a user to interactwith eyewear unit 500.

Positioning unit 518 provides positioning information for eyewear unit500. Positioning unit 518 may be, for example, a global positioningsystem or receiver. In this manner, processors within eyewear unit 500may perform localization to identify the location of eyewear unit 500 inperforming various functions.

The presentation of eyewear unit 500 in FIG. 5 is presented for purposesof illustrating one manner in which eyewear units may be implemented.These different components are not meant to imply physical limitationsor architectural limitations to the manner in which eyewear units may beimplemented in other advantageous embodiments.

For example, other advantageous embodiments may include other componentsin addition to or in place of the components illustrated in FIG. 5. Asanother example, in other advantageous embodiments, other types ofcommunication units other than a wireless communication unit may beused. For example, communications unit 506 may include a networkinterface card for wired connections in addition to or in place of awireless device.

The program code providing functionality for eyewear unit 500 may betransmitted to eyewear unit 500 through communications unit 506 andstored into memory 504. Further, during the use of eyewear unit 500, newprogram code may be transmitted to memory 504 to provide newfunctionality or to remove functionality from eyewear unit 500.

With reference now to FIG. 6, a diagram illustrating examples ofinformation transfers is depicted in accordance with an advantageousembodiment. In this example, eyewear unit 600 may provide access toinformation and provide functionality to transfer information. Eyewearunit 600, in these examples, may be implemented using eyewear unit 500in FIG. 5. The transfer of information may include information beingsent to the user of eyewear unit 600

Eyewear unit 600 may display information and receive user input. Forexample, eyewear unit 600 may display menu 602 and allow the user toorder items from menu 602. Also, ticket information 604 may be providedthrough eyewear unit 600. Also, a passenger may be provided access togames 606 and entertainment and television 608. Music 610 also may beprovided through eyewear unit 600.

Additional functions, such as virtual reality 612, augmented reality614, language translation 616, and virtual flight attendant 618, mayalso be provided. Through eyewear unit 600, the user also may providepersonal identification 620.

Augmented reality 614 may superimpose or display information over or inassociation with an object that a user sees. For example, augmentedreality 614 may display emergency evacuation paths when a user looksdown the aisle of a passenger cabin. As another example, with augmentedreality 614, a user may view seat information such as, for example, rowand seat identifier displayed on seats as a user moves down an aisle. Inother example, a graphical indicator or avatar may be displayed over orin association with a seat assigned to a passenger as the passengermoves down an aisle looking for the passenger's seat.

Virtual flight attendant 618 may allow the user of eyewear unit 600 tosend requests to the flight attendants. These requests may be ones thatmay be fulfilled by virtual flight attendant 618, in some examples. Forexample, if a user wishes to obtain connection gate information, theuser may query virtual flight attendant 618. In other examples, thequery made to virtual flight attendant 618 may be passed onto anon-virtual flight attendant who may fulfill the request.

Additionally, the user may access Internet 622 through eyewear unit 600.In this manner, the user may, for example, access e-mail or otherinformation through Internet 622. These functionalities are onlyexamples of some of the functionalities that may be provided througheyewear unit 600. Of course, in other advantageous embodiments, othertypes of information transfers may be provided in addition to or inplace of the ones illustrated in FIG. 6. For example, eyewear unit 600also may provide information such as, for example, without limitation,crew announcements, cockpit announcements, place card information,lavatory availability, food and beverage service, aircraft noises andfunctions, safety information, emergency information, and other suitabletypes of information.

The illustration of eyewear unit 600 in FIG. 6 is present for purposesof depicted one manner in which an eyewear unit can be implemented andis not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations on themanner in which different advantageous embodiments may be implemented.For example, eyewear unit 600 is illustrated as a pair or eyeglasses. Inother advantageous embodiments, an eyewear unit may take the form of ahelmet, a hat, or any other suitable form of head gear.

With reference now to FIG. 7, a diagram illustrating a presentation ofinformation using eyewear units is depicted in accordance with anadvantageous embodiment. In this example, avatar 700 is presented withinpassenger cabin 702. The user of the eyewear unit transmits information,such as what the user sees and the user's location in cabin 702. Avatar700 may be displayed on the display of the eyewear unit in a manner thatoverlays what the passenger sees. Avatar 700 may be a virtual flightattendant guiding the passenger to the passenger's seat. The view ofcabin 702 is from the perspective of a passenger wearing an eyewearunit.

In FIG. 8, a diagram illustrating an identification of a passenger seatis depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. In thisexample, avatar 700 points to seat 800 within cabin 702 to identify thepassenger's seat for the flight. In this manner, it is unnecessary for apassenger to look for the passenger's seat by reading row numbers andseat identifiers. The illustration of information presentation in FIGS.8 and 9 are presented for purposes of depicting an example ofinformation transfer and not meant as limitations to the type ofinformation and the manner in which information may be transferred usingeyewear units.

With reference now to FIG. 9, a functional block diagram of eyewearunits is depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. In thisexample, eyewear unit 900 is an example of one implementation foreyewear units within eyewear units 310 in FIG. 3. Eyewear unit 900 is anillustration of functional components that may be implemented usingsoftware and/or firmware in a data processing system, such as, forexample, data processing system 400 in FIG. 4.

Eyewear unit 900 includes user interface 902, which has user input 904,display 906, and audio 908. Eyewear unit 900 also includes module system909. Module system 909 comprises a set of modules that may be used toprocess information in eyewear unit 900. As used herein, a set of itemsrefers to one or more items. For example, a set of modules is one moremodules.

Additionally, module system 909 includes virtual flight attendant module910, avatar control module 912, augmented reality module 914, virtualreality module 916, language translator module 918, user profile module920, entertainment module 922, ordering module 924, localization module925, and interior architecture module 926. Eyewear unit 900 alsoincludes information transfer interface 927 and information database928.

User interface 902 provides software components used by a user tointeract with eyewear unit 900. For example, display 906 is a softwarecomponent that may control the display of images to a user on eyewearunit 900. Audio 908 may control the presentation of sounds presented toa user of eyewear unit 900.

User input 904 provides the user a capability to make requests and sendinformation to users and data processing systems. User input 904 mayinclude processes to receive user input from various devices such as,for example, a microphone, a video camera, a motion detector, and othersuitable devices. As another example, user input 904 may receive userinput from a keyboard, mouse, pointing device, or any other suitableuser input device attached to eyewear unit 900.

In addition, localization module 925 may perform localization processesto identify the location of eyewear unit 900. This position also mayinclude the orientation or direction a user is facing. Localizationmodule 925 may receive data signals from a component such as, forexample, a global positioning system. Additionally, other types of datamay be used to identify the location of eyewear unit 900. Localizationmodule 925 may provide this information to other modules in performingtheir functions. For example, avatar control module 912 and augmentedreality module 914 may present an avatar to a user to guide and identifylocations for users, such as within the aircraft or within an airport,based on knowing the position of the user and share information aboutthe airplane and airplane functionality.

User input 904 may receive user input through a number of differentmechanisms. For example, user input 904 may receive user input inresponse to a user selection of functions presented using display 906.For example, display 906 may represent controls such as, for example,drop down menus, selectable icons, or other suitable controls.

Information database 928 may cache information for use by eyewear unit900. For example, information database 928 may include passenger data930. Passenger data 930 may include, for example, ticket information932, preferences 934, and passenger identifier 936. Ticket information932 may include information about the user's ticket. Ticket information932 may be, for example, an electronic ticket.

Information database 928 may include other information in addition to orin place of passenger data 930. The information stored in informationdatabase 928 may be used by module system 909 to provide functionalityfor eyewear unit 900.

Preferences 934 may include various preferences about the passenger foruse during the flight. For example, preferences 934 may include aseating preference, a food preference, and other information that may beused by an airline or other service to tailor various services to thepassenger. Passenger identifier 936 may provide an identification of apassenger. This identification may be for purposes of authenticating useof different services and billing for services.

Module system 909 may perform various processes to generate informationfor presentation to a user through user interface 902. For example,various modules within module system 909 may control display 906 andaudio 908 in response to user input sent to user input 904. In thisillustrative example, virtual flight attendant module 910 may provide acapability to process requests made by a user.

For example, instead of pressing a button and waiting for a flightattendant to come and receive a request, the passenger may activatevirtual flight attendant module 310 to make the request without waitingfor an actual flight attendant. For example, a passenger may request ablanket, water, a magazine, gate information, or make some other requestthrough virtual flight attendant module 910.

Virtual flight attendant module 910 may determine whether the requestcan be fulfilled by sending information to eyewear unit 900. Forexample, the user may wish to know the amount of time left beforelanding. Virtual flight attendant module 910 may obtain that informationand present the information to the user. Virtual flight attendant module910 may cause an avatar in the form of a flight attendant to bedisplayed to the user on display 906 as a virtual reality flightattendant. This type of presentation may be performed in conjunctionwith avatar control module 912 and augmented reality module 914.Further, the information may be presented to the user through audio 908.

If the request cannot be fulfilled directly through virtual flightattendant module 910, virtual flight attendant module 910 may relay therequest to a non-virtual flight attendant. In this manner, the flightattendant already knows what the passenger is requesting without havingto travel to the passenger's seat. The non-virtual flight attendant mayrelay an acknowledgement of the request through virtual flight attendantmodule 910 and perform the request. This request may be, for example,bringing a blanket to the passenger.

Avatar control module 912 controls an avatar presented to the user ondisplay 906. Avatar control module 912 may include information andprocesses to present an avatar to a user. In these examples, the avatarmay be a virtual flight attendant. Of course, other types of avatars maybe used depending on the particular implementation. For example, avatarcontrol module 912 may present an animated character, an animal, arobot, or some other object as an avatar.

Augmented reality module 914 may provide overlays to display 906 to theenvironment seen by a passenger. For example, when a passenger is movingin the passenger cabin looking for the passenger's seat, a virtualflight attendant may be displayed using augmented reality module 914 topoint to the passenger's seat. Other information such as, for example,exit routes and the location of safety equipment may be identified usinga virtual flight attendant or other graphical indicators during reviewof safety procedures.

These overlays may be presented in conjunction with other modules suchas, for example, avatar control module 912 and virtual flight attendantmodule 910. Augmented reality module 914 may use information fromlocalization module 925 to correctly position the avatar in the displayto the user.

Virtual reality module 916 may provide virtual reality experiences forthe passenger. Virtual reality module 916 may present variousenvironments or scenes, as well as interactions for the user. Virtualreality module 916 may allow the user to interact with other users suchas, for example, passengers in the passenger cabin or users elsewhere.In other words, virtual reality module 916 allows a user to interactwith a computer simulated environment.

Virtual reality module 916 may control display 906 and audio 908 topresent the simulated environment. User input 904 may be used to receiveuser input for the interaction with this environment.

Language translator module 918 may be a language translator downloadedto and included within module system 909 to provide languagetranslations for a particular user of eyewear unit 900. For example, auser who only speaks French may have an instance of language translatormodule 918 that provides English-to-French translations if traveling ona flight in the United States. Of course, language translator module 918may provide translations for any language, depending on the particularuser.

User profile module 920 provides a capability to verify whether the userhas access rights to eyewear unit 900. In other words, user profilemodule 920 may determine whether a particular person can use eyewearunit 900. Some eyewear units may be usable by any user, while othereyewear units may be tailored to a particular passenger. User profilemodule 920 may receive information to identify and authorize a userthrough user input 904. This information may include, for example, apicture of a fingerprint of the user, a retina scan, a useridentification and password, or some other authorization or accessinformation.

Entertainment module 922 may provide various types of in-flightentertainment for a user. Entertainment module 922 may provide, forexample, without limitation, music, games, movies, Internet access,electronic books, and other entertainment features.

Ordering module 924 may be used to order various items. These items maybe goods and/or services. For example, ordering module 924 may be usedto order a meal during flight. Further, ordering module 924 may be usedto obtain a rental car, a hotel, another flight, or some other itemdepending on the particular implementation.

Interior architecture module 926 may provide information about theinterior of the aircraft. For example, interior architecture module 926may provide information such as, for example, emergency exits, safetyinformation, emergency information, location of lavatories, location ofgalleys, and other suitable information about the interior of theaircraft.

Information transfer interface 927 provides a capability to transferinformation between various components within eyewear unit 900 and theaircraft data processing system and/or other data processing systemsthat may be in communication with eyewear unit 900 or the aircraft dataprocessing system. For example, information transfer database 926 mayinclude the processes and protocols needed for communicating withwireless routers within the passenger cabin.

Information transfer interface 927 also may provide a capability toaccess the Internet, as well as other networks depending on theparticular implementation. Information transfer interface 927 mayinclude protocols for various transmission technologies such as, forexample, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth transmissions, or other suitable wirelesstransmission systems. Of course, information transfer interface 926 mayprovide processes to transfer information with other data processingsystems on the Internet and other computer networks.

The illustration of components in eyewear unit 900 is presented forpurposes of illustrating one manner in which an eyewear unit may beimplemented. This illustration is not meant to imply architecturallimitations to other embodiments. For example, in other embodiments,virtual flight attendant module 910 and avatar control module 912 may beimplemented as a single component. Also, other embodiments may includeother components in addition to or in place of the ones illustrated foreyewear unit 900.

With reference now to FIG. 10, a diagram illustrating types ofinformation that may be transferred to eyewear units is depicted inaccordance with an advantageous embodiment. In this example, information1000 is an example of different types of information that may be sent toand/or transmitted by eyewear units such as, for example, eyewear unit600 in FIG. 6.

In these examples, information 1000 includes user data identification1002, flight data 1004, destination data 1006, transportation data 1008,weather data 1010, traffic data 1012, airport data 1014, avatar data1016, language data 1018, muscular twitches data 1020, eyeball trackingdata 1022, virtual reality data 1024, augmented reality data 1026,ordering system data 1028, third party plug-in data 1030, audio data1032, dream system data 1034 flight data 1036, navigation data 1038,point of interest (POI) data 1040, ticket information data 1042, WiFiconnection data 1044, close captioning data 1046, gesture detection data1048, in-flight entertainment (IFE) data 1050, exterior/interior videofeed data 1052, local database data 1054, personal information data1056, music data 1058, Internet data 1060, personal files data 1062,application data 1064, operating system data 1066, portal data 1068, GUIdata 1070, maps data 1072, location data 1074, credit card/$$ data 1076,cockpit data 1078, crew data 1080, and air traffic control (ATC) data1082.

Information 1000 includes both data sent to the user of the eyewearunits, as well as data that may be transmitted by the user of theeyewear units. For example, flight data 1004, destination data 1006,transportation data 1008, weather data 1010, traffic data 1012, andairport data 1014 are examples of data that may be transferred toeyewear units. Muscle twitches data 1020 and eyeball tracking data 1022are examples of information that may be transmitted from eyewear units.

The data illustrated in FIG. 10 is provided for purposes of illustratingsome of the types of information that may be transferred using eyewearunits. Of course, other types of information may be used in addition toor in place of the data illustrated in FIG. 10.

With reference now to FIG. 11, a flowchart of a process for initializingeyewear units is depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment.The process illustrated in FIG. 11 may be implemented in a softwarecomponent such as, for example, user profile module 920 in FIG. 9.

The process begins by identifying a user (operation 1100). The user maybe identified in a number of different ways in operation 1100. Forexample, the user may enter a user identifier and/or pass code. Inanother example, the user may be identified based on a retina scan, afingerprint, or some other manner of unique identification foridentifying the user. The fingerprint of the user may be identifiedusing a camera or a fingerprint scanner attached to the eyewear units.

After identifying the user, a determination is made as to whether theuser is authorized to use the eyewear units (operation 1102). Thisdetermination may be made by accessing information within the eyewearunits to determine whether the particular user is allowed to use thedevice. In some implementations, any user having a ticket for theparticular flight may be allowed to use the eyewear units.

In other advantageous embodiments, the eyewear unit may be a deviceowned by the user for which only that user is authorized for use. If theuser is authorized, the process loads modules and information (operation1104). These modules and information may include, for example, softwarecomponents, such as those found in module system 909 in FIG. 9. Thesemodules may be found within the eyewear units or downloaded from anexternal source. The information may include information for aparticular flight, information used by the modules, or other suitableinformation for the eyewear units.

The process initiates the modules (operation 1106). After the moduleshave been initiated, the eyewear units enter a functional state(operation 1108), with the process terminating thereafter. In thefunctional state, the eyewear units may perform various functions inresponse to user input and information received by the eyewear unitsfrom other sources.

With reference again to operation 1102, if the user is not authorized,the process terminates. As a result of this type of termination, nofunctionality is usable within the eyewear units.

With reference to FIG. 12, a flowchart of a process for handling userinput is depicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. Theprocess illustrated in FIG. 12 may be implemented in a softwarecomponent such as, for example, user input 904 in FIG. 9.

The process begins by monitoring for user input (operation 1200). Thisoperation may monitor for input from a user, such as a particular eyemovement, hand movement, muscle twitch, or other suitable input. Userinput may be present only when certain actions are taken from a user inthese examples. For example, a particular hand movement, eye movement,or muscle twitch may be considered user input when a function from adisplay menu or a particular type of input is detected.

The process determines whether user input has been received (operation1202). If user input has not been received, the process returns tooperation 1200. If user input has been received, the process identifiesa module for the user input (operation 1204). This user input isinformation and may take the form of commands and/or data. The modulemay be identified based on the user input. For example, the user inputmay select a particular function associated with a module within theeyewear unit. The process then sends the user input to the module(operation 1206), with the process then returning to operation 1200 tomonitor for more user input.

With reference now to FIG. 13, a flowchart of a process for an avatar isdepicted in accordance with an advantageous embodiment. The processillustrated in FIG. 13 may be implemented using a software component,such as avatar control module 912 in FIG. 9. Further, this process mayuse information and functions from other modules. For example, theprocess may include augmented reality module 914 and localization module925 in FIG. 9.

As illustrated, the process identifies the user location (operation1300). This operation may be performed using a localization module. Theprocess identifies a user destination (operation 1302). This destinationmay be identified through the augmented reality module. The processgenerates a path to the destination (operation 1304).

The process displays an avatar directing the user to move along the path(operation 1306). The display of the avatar may be presented using theavatar control module and augmented reality module to present the avatarin a manner that directs the user to the destination. The process thenwaits for user movement (operation 1308). When the user moves, a currentlocation of the user is identified (operation 1310).

The process then determines whether the destination has been reached(operation 1312). If the destination has been reached, the processterminates and the avatar is no longer presented. If the destination hasnot been reached in operation 1312, the process returns to operation1306 to continue to display the avatar directing the user along the pathtowards the destination.

This process may be used in any situation in which a user of the eyewearunits needs guidance. For example, this process may be used to guide thepassenger to the passenger's seat. The process may also be used to guidea user to various locations within airports such as, for example,without limitation, a restaurant, a gate terminal, a newsstand, or someother suitable destination.

In this manner, the different advantageous embodiments provide anaircraft communications system in which eyewear units, a data processingsystem, and routers may transfer information. The different advantageousembodiments may use a combination of multimedia presentations ofinformation to provide information to a user.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodimentsillustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of somepossible implementations of apparatus, methods and computer programproducts. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagramsmay represent a module, segment, or portion of computer usable orreadable program code, which comprises one or more executableinstructions for implementing the specified function or functions.

In some alternative implementations, the function or functions noted inthe block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example,in some cases, two blocks shown in succession may be executedsubstantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed inthe reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved.

Although the different advantageous embodiments are described withrespect to the use of eyewear units, some advantageous embodiments mayimplement the hardware and/or software into headrests with display onthe back of the headrest for passengers.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of”, when used with a list ofitems, means that different combinations one or more of the items may beused and only one of each item in the list may be needed. For example,“at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may include, for example,without limitation, item A, or item A and item B. This example also mayinclude item A, item B, and item C, or item B and item C.

The different advantageous embodiments can take the form of an entirelyhardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or an embodimentcontaining both hardware and software elements. Some embodiments areimplemented in software, which includes but is not limited to forms,such as, for example, firmware, resident software, and microcode.

Furthermore, the different embodiments can take the form of a computerprogram product accessible from a computer-usable or computer-readablemedium providing program code for use by or in connection with acomputer or any device or system that executes instructions. For thepurposes of this disclosure, a computer-usable or computer readablemedium can generally be any tangible apparatus that can contain, store,communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or inconnection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

The computer usable or computer readable medium can be, for example,without limitation an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic,infrared, or semiconductor system, or a propagation medium. Non limitingexamples of a computer-readable medium include a semiconductor or solidstate memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a randomaccess memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk,and an optical disk. Optical disks may include compact disk-read onlymemory (CD-ROM), compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W) and DVD.

Further, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may contain orstore a computer readable or usable program code such that when thecomputer readable or usable program code is executed on a computer, theexecution of this computer readable or usable program code causes thecomputer to transmit another computer readable or usable program codeover a communications link. This communications link may use a mediumthat is, for example without limitation, physical or wireless.

A data processing system suitable for storing and/or executing computerreadable or computer usable program code will include one or moreprocessors coupled directly or indirectly to memory elements through acommunications fabric, such as a system bus. The memory elements mayinclude local memory employed during actual execution of the programcode, bulk storage, and cache memories which provide temporary storageof at least some computer readable or computer usable program code toreduce the number of times code may be retrieved from bulk storageduring execution of the code.

Input/output or I/O devices can be coupled to the system either directlyor through intervening I/O controllers. These devices may include, forexample, without limitation to keyboards, touch screen displays, andpointing devices. Different communications adapters may also be coupledto the system to enable the data processing system to become coupled toother data processing systems or remote printers or storage devicesthrough intervening private or public networks. Non-limiting examplesare modems and network adapters are just a few of the currentlyavailable types of communications adapters.

The description of the different advantageous embodiments has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description, and is notintended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the formdisclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art. Further, different advantageousembodiments may provide different advantages as compared to otheradvantageous embodiments.

The embodiment or embodiments selected are chosen and described in orderto best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practicalapplication, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art tounderstand the disclosure for various embodiments with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

1. An aircraft communications system located on an aircraft, theaircraft communications system comprising: a set of eyewear units inwhich each eyewear unit has a set of sensors and a display, wherein theset of eyewear units is configured to receive user input from the set ofsensors and configured to present information to a set of users of theset of eyewear units using the display; an aircraft data processingsystem configured to receive the user input and send the information tothe set of eyewear units in response to receiving the user input fromthe set of eyewear units; and a wireless system located in a cabin ofthe aircraft, wherein the wireless system is configured to send the userinput from the set of eyewear units to the aircraft data processingsystem and send the information to the set of eyewear units.
 2. Theaircraft communications system of claim 1 further comprising: a set ofline replaceable units located on the aircraft, wherein the aircraftdata processing system is configured to control functions for the set ofline replaceable units in response to the user input.
 3. The aircraftcommunications system of claim 2, wherein the set of line replaceableunits comprises at least one of an in-flight entertainment system, anaircraft environmental control system.
 4. The aircraft communicationssystem of claim 1, wherein an eyewear unit in the set of eyewear unitsis configured to convey the information using a virtual reality module.5. The aircraft communications system of claim 1, wherein the eyewearunit in the set of eyewear units is configured to display an avatar topresent the information to a passenger using the eyewear unit.
 6. Theaircraft communications system of claim 5, wherein the avatar isdisplayed in an augmented reality.
 7. The aircraft communications systemof claim 1, wherein the set of eyewear units is configured to provide atleast one of ticket information, internet access, ordering, languagetranslation, virtual reality, games, music, video, and a virtual flightattendant, entertainment, safety information, crew information, cockpitinformation, and interior architecture information.
 8. The aircraftcommunications system of claim 1, wherein each of the set of eyewearunits executes a set of software modules.
 9. The aircraft communicationssystem of claim 8, wherein the aircraft data processing system sends asoftware module within the set of software modules to the set of eyewearunits.
 10. The aircraft communications system of claim 1, wherein theset of eyewear units comprises at least one of an augmented realtymodule, a virtual flight attendant module, a virtual reality module, alanguage translator module, a user profile module, an entertainmentmodule, a localization module, and an ordering module.
 11. An apparatuscomprising: an eyewear unit having a set of sensors, a video display, anaudio device, a wireless communications unit, and a processing unit; anda set of modules executing on the processing unit, wherein the eyewearunit is configured to receiving user input from the set of sensors andconfigured to present information to a user of the eyewear unit using atleast one of the video display and the audio device a wireless systemlocated in an aircraft; and an aircraft data processing systemconfigured to communicate with the eyewear unit using the wirelesssystem, wherein the aircraft data processing system sends theinformation to the eyewear unit in response to the user input receivedfrom the eyewear unit.
 12. The apparatus of claim 11 further comprising:a set of replaceable line units in the aircraft, wherein the aircraftdata processing system is configured to control functions for the set ofline replaceable units in response to the user input.
 13. The apparatusof claim 12, wherein the set of line replaceable units comprises atleast one of an in-flight entertainment system, an aircraftenvironmental control system.
 14. The apparatus of claim 11 furthercomprising: a second wireless system located in an airport; and a dataprocessing system configured to communicate with the eyewear unit usingthe set of wireless routers, wherein the data processing system sendsthe information to the eyewear unit in response to the user inputreceived from the eyewear unit.
 15. The apparatus of claim 11, whereinthe set of modules executed in the processor unit is configured toprovide at least one of ticket information, internet access, ordering,language translation, virtual reality, games, music, video, and avirtual flight attendant, entertainment, safety information, crewinformation, cockpit information, and interior architecture information.16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the set of modules comprises atleast one of an augmented realty module, a virtual flight attendantmodule, a virtual reality module, a language translator module, a userprofile module, an entertainment module, a localization module, and anordering module.
 17. A computer implemented method for providinginformation to a user, the computer implemented method comprising:receiving a request from an eyewear unit comprising a set of sensors, avideo display, an audio device, a wireless communications unit, aprocessing unit, and a set of modules executing on the processing unit,wherein the eyewear unit is configured to receive user input from theset of sensors and configured to present the information to a user ofthe eyewear unit using at least one of the video display and the audiodevice; identifying, by an aircraft data processing system, particularinformation responsive to the request to form identified information;and sending, by a wireless system, the identified information to theeyewear unit.
 18. The computer implemented method of claim 17 furthercomprising; presenting the identified information on the eyewear unit inresponse to receiving the identified information at the eyewear unit.19. The computer implemented method of claim 17, wherein the identifiedinformation comprises at least one of directions, a video, music, agame, ticket information, and a new module for execution by the eyewearunit.